Breaking Barriers in DNA Analysis: The Role of Bioinformatics
In this engaging interview, Ellen Greytak, Director of Bioinformatics at Parabon Nanolabs, shares insights from her extensive career in forensic DNA analysis. Ellen, who has been with Parabon since her postdoctoral fellowship in bioinformatics, discusses the challenges and breakthroughs in investigative genetic genealogy, particularly in dealing with mixed DNA samples. She explains the complex process […]
This Week in Forensic Science
No one has hours to scour the papers to keep up with the latest news, so we’ve curated the top news stories in the field of Forensic Science for this week. Here’s what you need to know to get out the door! Bill Promotes ‘Trauma-Informed’ Response to Sexual Assault (Forensic – 1/19/2024) An […]
From Grave to Gene: Uncovering George Washington’s Lineage at Harewood Cemetery
Join us in this fascinating interview with Courtney Cavagnino at ISHI 34, where she delves into her intriguing research focused on a unique set of remains discovered at Harewood Cemetery in Charlestown, West Virginia. An excavation, which began in 1999, was initially aimed at locating the unmarked grave of Samuel Washington, but led to an […]
DNA in the Courtroom: Keeping Pace with Forensic Reform
Today’s guest blog is written by AnnaKay Kruger, Promega. Reposted from the ISHI Report with permission. Grounded in empirical validation, DNA analysis is widely considered the gold standard of forensic science. In contrast, the perception of DNA analysts in the courtroom has undergone a noticeable shift over the years toward greater skepticism. In the early days […]
Identifying Jane Doe X-1
Today’s guest blog is written by Olivia McCarter, Genealogy Analyst, Moxxy Forensic Investigations, Mobile County Sheriff’s Office. Reposted from the ISHI Report with permission. May 18th, 1976 was a warm day in Grand Bay, Alabama. Two teenage boys headed out to Session’s Creek with plans to go fishing when they instead discovered the discarded remains of […]
This Week in Forensic Science
No one has hours to scour the papers to keep up with the latest news, so we’ve curated the top news stories in the field of Forensic Science for this week. Here’s what you need to know to get out the door! St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s Office Teams with Othram to Identify 1984 […]
Uniting for Change: The Global Sexual Assault Kit Donation Project
In this interview, Vanessa Lynch and Jennifer Degner discuss a notable initiative they are spearheading to bolster forensic DNA practices in Africa (and around the globe), with a focal point on addressing sexual assault. Vanessa, being the Regional Director of DNAforAfrica, embarked on this mission following a personal tragedy, the murder of her father, […]
Central State University: Developing a New Kind of Forensic Studies Program
Today’s guest blog is written and condensed by Tara Luther, Promega. Reposted from the ISHI Report with permission. Utilizing a National Science Foundation grant, Central State University will be enhancing several programs in the Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences over the next three years, including the introduction of a Forensic Studies minor. Genevieve Ritchie-Ewing, […]
20 Headlines Making News in Forensic Science During 2023
As 2023 comes to a close, we’d like to look back on some of the top news stories of the year. Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy continued to see numerous successes in closing both cold and doe cases and experts are continuing to develop standards and certifications for those using the technique while law makers push […]
